Kochi – A walk through the old world charm

Planning a trip can get overwhelming, from narrowing down to the place to selecting what to see & do, to all the bookings. I had Kerela on my bucket list for the longest time. Hence, when a friend proposed to come down, I grabbed the offer in a blink – ‘A Three Day’ trip to Kochi.

I had no idea that Kochi is the old city and the new Kochi is actually Ernakulam, about 7Km from Kochi. This city has its own old world charm with narrow lanes, old colonial buildings, churches, palaces, streets and all. While the rest of Kerela is known for its soothing and laid back attractions, Kochi has its own relaxed charm offering fun things to do and explore.

The Gateway Hotel by Taj located at Ernakulam’s busiest commercial hub - Marine Drive was my den for the next 3 days. The scenic backwaters and the Cochin Harbour is the highlight of this hotel. Each morning will be refreshing and your evenings will be as romantic as the glittering backwaters.

Just before the sunset around 5:30 PM the hotel invites you for private boat jetty trip, where you will view the beautiful harbour one side the old Kochi and Ernakulam on the other. Marine Drive is a favourite spot amongst the localities as well as the travellers. It’s as scenic as one can imagine being.

Breakfast

The next day after munching a healthy breakfast, I headed to the old part of Kochi. Crossing the Thoppumpady BOT Bridge via Wellington Island was a beautiful experience. The Wellington Island is the home of the Kochi Naval Base of the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard.

Here I Go!

The best way to explore is by walking through and discovering the Chinese fishing nets, the St. Francis Church which once housed the Vasco Da Gama’s grave. I found the most amazing restaurants and cafes while walking this street. Interestingly, there is a street named Princess Street, the architecture had this vintage touch.

Fort Nagar

Random:Wall Art

Ginger House Restaurent

Next, I headed for the Dutch Palace few call it Mattancherry Palace and Jewish Synagogue. Both of them are close to one another. Portuguese built the Dutch Palace and gifted to the then Raja of Kochi, Veera Varma. From the Palace, it is a very short walk to the Jewish Synagogue. Jew Street is vibrantly colourful with shops selling artifacts, handworks, masks, clothes. Jew Street looks like a European alley. Keep in mind, Synagogue remains closed on Friday, and photography inside the premises is not allowed.

Since the midday sun was getting hot, it was becoming intolerable to stay out. We went back to the hotel to rest. After walking so much I decided to go for an Ayurvedic Spa at the hotel's spa. Kerela is famous for ayurvedic treatments and their results. After an hour of relaxation, food is what I craved for.

The most popular dish according to my Keralite friend is the fish fry. It’s SPICY! Of course, there is seafood, curries, and juices. Lots of food in Kerala involves coconut milk and cashews. Paragon Restaurant at Lulu Mall is where I had my one of the yummiest dinner in Kochi. Value for money service with mouth-watering dishes and service. Red hot curry fish on top of a mountain of rice is a dream come true for a seafood lover. Perfect evening with perfect food is bliss.

My Kochi trip came to an end the next day I was off for my good old Delhi. Kerala was such an awesome place to be people are friendly and welcoming. It was such a wonderful trip. Kerala is so true to its name "God's Own Country".